Facemask with facial seal and seal test device

ABSTRACT

A facemask configured to be used by multiple sized/shaped heads can include a primary, a secondary and a tertiary seal. In some embodiments, the primary seal is contact with the nose and cheek regions; the secondary seal is in contact with the chin region; and the tertiary seal is in contact with the cheek and chin regions. In some embodiments, the tertiary seal extends inwardly and outwardly when applied to the face. In some embodiments, the mask includes test scissors.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/656,224 filed on Apr. 11, 2018 entitled “Facemask withFacial Seal, Eye Shield and Strap Adjustment Assembly and Seal TestDevice”. The '224 application is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention concerns facemasks, and in particular facemasksand eye shields to protect against airborne particulates and pathogens.

Masks are often used as a form of protection against airborneparticulates and pathogens, including bacteria and viruses. Facemasksare typically worn over the mouth and nose of the wearer and canincorporate a form of eye protection. Masks can be used in environmentswith high levels of airborne particulates and/or allergens where thewearer wishes to not inhale said particulates. To effectively reduce awearer's exposure to airborne substances, a respiratory protectiondevice needs to fit well and effectively filter out said substances.

Preventing inhalation and contact with airborne pathogens andenvironmental allergens is not only important in environments thatrequire high levels of air purity, such as hospitals, but also in homesof people suffering from allergies. Additionally, wearers suffering fromrespiratory infections can benefit from the filter capture of pathogensand allergens when out in public.

One issue when attempting to manufacture a standard facemask isaccommodating the various sizes/shapes of potential wearers.Traditionally this issue has been overcome by manufacturing masks ofseveral sizes and/or shapes.

However, this method is not ideal as the lack of a single mask designedfor various head shapes/sizes requires additional planning, preparation,purchasing, storing and supplying different sized respirators. This isespecially problematic when masks are to be used in emergencysituations.

In addition, traditionally mask wearers must choose a correctly sizedmask to fit their facial characteristics. Not only does this cost time,but often the wearer chooses the wrong sized/shaped mask for his/herface. The resulting improper fit can prevent the mask from properlysealing against the wear's face and properly filtering airbornecontaminants, particles and/or pathogens. Often the user is unaware thatthe mask does not fit. Again, this is especially concerning duringemergency situations.

Existing respirator head attachment systems range from simple,non-adjustable elastic bands that fit behind a wearer's ears to complexhead harness assemblies. Respirators employing non-adjustable elasticband head attachment provide subpar facial coverage as the straps andmask cannot be adjusted to different tensions to provide customized,comfortable coverage to different facial contours. Head harnessassemblies are often uncomfortable to wear and difficult to adjust withnumerous buckles, fasteners and straps.

Adjustable assemblies that utilize two sets of upper and lower strapsthat meet behind the head require each strap be singularly adjusted tocenter the mask on the face.

What is needed is a single mask design capable of effectively workingwith various head shapes/sizes. In at least some embodiments, the maskshould work with the five certification head forms of the NationalInstitute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

In addition to providing a mask design capable of effectively workingwith various head shapes/sizes, there is a need for improvement intesting the seal of various masks.

In some embodiments it would be helpful to have a mask system with anadjustable elastic mask strap system that can work without hardwarecomponents. In some embodiments, the system could self-center on thehead and face of a user and be adjusted by the wearer via a single,simple process. In most embodiments, the mask system would alleviatediscomfort mask wearers often encounter (particularly over their ears).

Traditionally seal tests involve placing the wearer inside anup-side-down tube, sealed at the top, wherein a noxious odor isintroduced. If the wearer can smell the odor, then the seal isinsufficient, and adjustments are made. The test is then repeated untila successful seal has been achieved. This testing is time consuming. Inaddition, even after a proper seal is made, the seal may be broken,unknown to the wearer, during use. Improvements to testing the seal ofmask are needed.

Additionally, there is a need for an improved eye shield that can easilyintegrated to a mask system. Independent conventional eye shields sufferfrom inherent flaws including the use of multiple straps to maintainposition. These straps can come undone potentially resulting incontamination of the wearer. These straps can also lead to difficulty ofmaintaining the eye shield's original position, place the shield againstthe forehead and other vulnerable areas, and/or interconnect withfacemasks providing continuity of protection between the two.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments described below and shown in the various drawingsovercome many known shortcomings of conventional facemasks and eyeshields.

Such shortcomings of conventional facemasks include a lack ofadjustability and perpetuation of restricted and/or misdirectedair-flow, imperfect sealing, and the inability for a single mask toprotect wearers of different sizes and shapes.

In some embodiments, the masks provide, among other things, a continuousstrap system. In some of these embodiments, the strap is integrateddirectly into an opening that enables it to be snapped into an area infront of the nose of the wearer of the mask, generating forces withcomponents parallel and perpendicular to the plane of the face. In someembodiments, the mask can be configured to pull upward and backwardsbeneath the chin as well as towards the plane of the face to provide atight fit.

In some embodiments, the mask assembly can comprise a lower air intake.In certain embodiments, this intake is located on the lower frontsection of a mask. In some embodiments, the air intake directs airflowat a non-right angle to the plane of a filter contained within the mask.

In some embodiments, an air filter is internal to the mask. In certainembodiments, the filter is replaceable. In at least some embodiments,the filter is sealed within the mask structure. In some embodiments, theair filters have biocidal components.

In some embodiments, there are no front-facing openings on the mask. Insome of these embodiments, the mask assembly can comprise channels thatdirect exhaled air sideways and/or backwards, in a direction parallel toand/or behind the plane of a wearer's face. In some embodiments, thisventing occurs from multiple sides of a mask simultaneously. In at leastsome of these embodiments, vent systems are symmetrically placed aboutan axis in the plane of the mask. In certain embodiments, the exhaledair is directed towards the cheeks, neck and/or ears of a wearer.

In some of the embodiments, air is blocked by a solid front-facingconstruct that restricts direct access to an internal filter fromfrontal air flow. In at least some of these embodiments, the exhaled airflows through channels backwards and/or sideways from the mask.

In some embodiments, the mask assembly can comprise a nose clip and/orelastic components to complete a continuous strap. In some embodiments,the strap can clip or snap into a mask. In some embodiments, thecontinuous strap can clip or snap into a component that allows for straptension adjustment.

In some embodiments, openings in a mask assembly can be circular,oblate, and/or polygonal. In some embodiments, openings can form toreceive various attachments. In certain embodiments, a mask assembly cancomprise extrusions along an interior rim and/or on a top or bottomsection of the mask.

In certain embodiments, a mask assembly can comprise an eye shieldassembly. In some of these embodiments, the eye shield is transparent.In some embodiments, an eye shield can comprise at least one extrusioninserted through a pair of through holes. In certain embodiments, ashield can be secured at the nose area of the mask. In some embodiments,eye shield can also rest against the wearer's forehead and/orcheekbones.

Some embodiments of the mask assembly occur at least in part in thefollowing configuration:

-   -   (a) at least one air vent for bidirectional flow of air being        inhaled and exhaled by the wearer, the at least one airflow        intake capable of directing inward airflow to strike an interior        air filter at an oblique angle;    -   (b) a head mounting pad having a single or dual pull to tension        the mask assembly against the wearer's face; and    -   (c) a continuous strap positionable under the chin of the wearer        and in the nose area.

In some embodiments, a mask has snap-in receivers. Some embodiments ofsnap-in receivers are given in the figures presented herein, howeverthese are not meant to be the only disclosed locations or embodiments ofsnap-in receivers.

In embodiments having snap-in receivers, the receivers are often (butnot exclusively) meant to receive strap(s) for the mask assembly. Insome embodiments, the receivers are designed to accommodate a single,continuous strap. In some embodiments, a mask has two snap-in receivers,one in the nose area, and one in the proximity of a wear's chin. Thesereceivers need not be similarly designed to one another. For instance,one receiver can resemble a slot in the mask itself, while the otherreceiver can resemble a hook. In some embodiments, snap-in receivers canaccommodate other mask attachments, such as an eye shield assembly.

In some embodiments, the continuous strap is elastic, and can beadjusted by equally tensioning the strap mounted within a strapadjustment component at the back of the head. In at least someembodiments, such a design provides numerous advantages over existingmasks, such as fewer breakable components, removing the need for claspsor buckles, increased ability to adjust applications of force by themask to conform to various faces, and ease of mask removal.

In some embodiments, there is a broadly adaptive mask assemblycontaining a primary seal, a secondary seal and a tertiary seal. In atleast some embodiments, the adaptive mask assembly is a single mask thatis broadly adaptive to multiple shapes and sizes of different users.

In some embodiments, the primary seal encompasses the surface of theperimeter of the mask and is substantially in contact with the nose andcheek regions of a wearer's face. In some embodiments, the secondaryseal encompasses a surface of the perimeter of the mask and issubstantially in contact with the chin region of a wearer's face. Insome embodiments, the tertiary seal is disposed about the inner surfaceof the perimeter of the mask and is substantially in contact with thecheek and chin regions of the wearers face.

In at least some embodiments, the tertiary seal is attached to theprimary seal and extends outwardly.

In some embodiments, the tertiary seal is configured to encompass thesecondary seal including a chin cup providing a double seal.

In some embodiments, the tertiary seal extends outwardly from thesurface of the primary seal, wherein, in some embodiments, the tertiaryseal is configured to form an internal and external lip when compressedagainst a user's face expanding the surface area and forming a betterseal.

In certain embodiments, the mask can include crossbars formed withinupper vents of the mask to accept attachment elements of a shieldassembly.

In at least some embodiments, a seal test scissor assembly for passivetesting of a mask assembly can include the following configuration:

(a) a first scissor frame and second scissor frame in a substantiallycross-shaped configuration and attached by a fulcrum point that issubsequently biased into open and closed positions to mount the mask;

(b) attachment points on the scissor frames to cooperate with a biasingmechanism to clamp around a mask;

(c) a sealing material is at least partially disposed about the firstscissor frame and second scissor frame; and

(d) seal test scissors constructed to be biased in a closed position.

In certain embodiments, a shield assembly can include features includinga shield including a headband conforming against the face and attachedby clip-on elements. In some embodiments, the clip-on element can alsohave an adjustable element for biasing of a shield against a user'sface. In at least some embodiments, the shield is capable of beingattached to a respiratory mask in order to protect the face and/or eyesof a wearer.

In some embodiments, a shield is used in conjunction with a respiratorymask by way of the clip-on elements to provide protection from airbornecontaminants, particles and/or pathogens.

In some embodiments, a mask can be secured to the face of a wearer by astrap adjustment assembly. In certain embodiments, the strap adjustmentassembly can include a frame that has a strap bonded to it and whichthen loops back into said frame. In some embodiments, once the strap islooped within the adjustment frame it can be manually adjusted todifferent tension settings to alter the tension of the straps toaccommodate a wide variety of head sizes and facial contours. In someembodiments, tension settings can be retained within the adjustmentframe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cutaway side view of a mask assembly configured to fitmultiple face sizes and shapes illustrating a primary seal, a secondaryseal, and a tertiary seal.

FIG. 2 is a back-perspective view of the mask of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a front view of a mask assembly with test scissors.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a pair of test scissors in aclosed position.

FIG. 5 is a front view of a pair of test scissors in an open position.

FIG. 6 is a front view of a mask assembly with an eye shield assembly.

FIG. 7 is side perspective view of a mask assembly and eye shieldassembly attached to the mask.

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of an eye shield assembly.

FIG. 9 is a close-up view of a strap adjusted within a strap adjustmentframe.

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of a strap adjustment assemblysnapped into a mask mounted on a user.

FIG. 11 is a back-perspective view of a strap adjustment assemblysnapped into a mask mounted on a user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT(S)

Mask Assembly Configured to Fit Multiple Face Sizes and Shapes

FIG. 1 is a side view of mask assembly 100. In some embodiments, maskassembly 100 can have continuous strap 102. Strap 102 can be made of,among other things, various straps 102, cords, tubing, and/or O-ringstock. In most, if not all, embodiments, strap 102 is elastic.

In the illustrated embodiment, snap-in receivers 103 a and 103 b arepresent in nasal area 104 of mask 101 and beneath chin area 105. Snap-inreceiver 103 b, located beneath the chin, resembles a hook receivingcontinuous strap 102. Snap-in receiver 103 a, located in the nasalsection, shows a valley defined by two extrusions that receives theupper part of continuous strap 102. In addition to hooks and extrusions,snap-in receivers 103 a and 103 b can resemble, among other things,voids, divets, sets of ridges, and other suitable moldings of mask 101that can accommodate straps 102.

In many embodiments, snap-in receivers offer several advantages, such asallowing a wearer to replace strap 102 on the fly. For example, if strap102 were to break and a wearer did not have access to a properreplacement strap 102, the wearer could utilize a wide variety ofsuitable materials such as his or her own shoelace for an immediatefield repair. This feature could be life-saving should such an immediatefield repair be necessary in an infectious or hazardous air environment.

In at least some embodiments, vents 106 are configured to vent exhaledCO₂ and H₂O-laden air sideways and/or backwards towards a wearer's faceand neck. In some embodiments, vents 106 do not allow exhaled air to bechanneled downward. In some embodiments, this is accomplished via flapsthat impede the flow of are in the downward direction. In someembodiments, vents have lips configured to direct the flow of exhaledair.

In some embodiments, mask 101 contains primary seal/facial skirt 201. Insome embodiments, primary seal 201 has elastic properties. In at leastsome embodiments, primary seal 201 can be made of a soft silicone and/orother materials that conform to a wearer's face and/or materials capableof creating an airtight seal.

In at least some embodiments, front section 108 of mask 101 isconstructed of a hard plastic. In other embodiments, other materials,including but not limited to rubber, silicone, metals, other thinplastics or composite materials can be used to construct front section108. In certain embodiments, front section 108 has unrestricted ventingthat is large enough to improve the speech clarity of a wearer whencompared to traditional masks.

In at least some embodiments, strap 102 self-aligns within snap-inreceiver 103 a and snap-in receiver 103 b and crosses behind the head toproduce a snug, self-centering fit.

In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can utilize two straps 102, a topstrap configured to slide into the snap-in receiver 103 a which allowsthe top strap to slide back and forth to balance the position of clipsand/or buckles and a bottom strap configured to slide in snap-inreceiver 103 b. In some embodiments, snap-in receivers allow at leastone, if not both of straps 102 to be easily removed. In someembodiments, clips and/or buckles can be used to help stabilize theupper and/or lower straps 102. Various embodiments of straps 102 can beconfigured to fit with a mask design given the placement of various snapvoids or receivers. In some embodiments, open-ended straps 102 can betied behind the ears and/or the head and/or secured and adjusted.

Existing elastomeric half-face masks use one-way check valves, generallyelastic diaphragms mounted directly in front of the mouth, to enableexhalations to vent. Inhalations and exhalations are eachmono-directional. Exhaled air above the exhaust vent is thus trappedabove it, which prevents nasal breathing primarily due to the build-upof CO₂. In addition, particulates and/or pathogens captured by thefilter material migrate through that filter material with everyinhalation as the exhalation, which pushes them outwards, goes out thruthe diaphragm vent.

In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 is configured to reduce, if notcompletely prevent, forward facing air inhalations and exhalations. Insome embodiments, vents 106 can be channeled to create oblique airflowpatterns over a filter insert. In certain embodiments having pleatedfilter insert(s), these channels can be configured to coincide withfilter pleats.

In FIG. 1 , there is no direct access to an internal filter from thefrontal flow of air on to the mask surface, and the exhaled air isvented sideways and/or backwards relative to the plane of a wearer'sface through vents 106. In some preferred embodiments, vents arearranged symmetrically around mask 101.

In some embodiments, vents 106 are configured to allow the escape ofexhaled heat, moisture and/or CO₂. In certain embodiments, vents 106 aresufficiently large enough such that a wearer can be heard more clearly.In some embodiments, vents 106 force exhaled air and/or CO₂ off to thesides of a wearer's face. In some embodiments, this is accomplished byplacing vents 106 near the upper most sides of mask 101 where exhaledair tends to migrate. The sideways and backwards venting of exhalationsis of particular importance when the wearer of a mask is ill to protectthose in front. Vents can be configured to aid in reducing, if notcompletely eliminating, frontal contact of inhaled particles onto thefilter.

In some embodiments, vents 106 placed above the nostrils of the wearersupport improved nasal breathability over conventional masks andrespirators and accentuates the oblique angle air flow that supportsgreater capture of air-borne elements within the surface of the filter.

In some embodiments, the bi-directional airflow design of the presentlydisclosed mask, reduces the likelihood of particulates and/or pathogensmigrating through the filter. In at least some embodiments, no air canbe trapped within the mask as the uppermost vents are above the wearers'nostrils.

FIG. 1 shows air vents 106, along with the inward and rearward flow ofair shown in arrows 120. In FIG. 1 , primary seal 201 is shown. In someembodiments, primary seal 201 has elastic properties to conform to theface of the wearer.

In at least some embodiments, sections of mask 101 are coated withsilicone, rubber, and/or other comfort inducing materials. In at leastsome embodiments, these materials can help a user wear a mask for longperiod without discomfort and/or worrying about transmission/receptionof infections.

In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can be boiled/autoclaved and isreusable. In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can be cleaned bychemical disinfectant methods. In some embodiments, strap 102 can beboiled and/or autoclaved. In certain embodiments, strap 102 does notneed to be disassembled from mask 101 before being boiled and/orautoclaved. In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can be cleaned and/orboiled without disassembling it.

In at least some embodiments, mask system 100 allows for particlesexhaled by a wearer to strike a pleated filter at an oblique angle. Inat least some embodiments, in the event that a wearer coughs and/orsneezes and induces a high-pressure zone preceding the filter in themask, the filter captures particles and vents air backwards away fromindividuals the wearer may be facing or interacting with.

In at least some embodiments, inhalation and exhalation pressures areinherently close to identical within a mask system. Such embodimentsoffer advantages such as retarding the migration of particulates and/orpathogens through a filter system.

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 100 is configured to be usedwith at least the five National Institute for Occupational Safety andHealth (NIOSH) certification adult head forms; small, short-wide, large,medium, long-narrow. In some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can fit achild's face.

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 100 can accommodatedifferent shapes and sizes of a wearers face. In some embodiments, thisis accomplished with primary seal 201, secondary seal 202, tertiary seal203 and/or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, primary seal 201,secondary seal 202 and/or tertiary seal 203 fit securely against theface of the wearer.

FIG. 1 further illustrates dotted lines, representing portions of eachof the three facial seals from an internal and external perspective whenmask 101 is in use.

Primary 201, secondary 202 and tertiary seals 203 are shown about theperimeter of upper nose 208 and cheek regions 209, areas parallel tomouth and cheeks and areas under chin 211. In at least some embodiments,primary seal 201 is continuous about the perimeter of mask 101. In atleast some embodiments, secondary seal 202 creates chin cup 212 aroundchin region 211. Chin cup 212 can engage with the chin of the wearer.

In at least some embodiments, tertiary seal 203 can be intermittentlycontinuous (not shown) or continuously positioned about the areas underchin region 211 and/or areas parallel to mouth and cheeks 209. FIG. 1shows tertiary seal 203 from an internal and external perspective whenfacial mask assembly 100 is in use. The external dotted line depicts theoutwardly extending tertiary seal 203 and the internal dotted linedepicts tertiary seal 203 folding inward against the face of theaforementioned problem areas while in use.

In at least some embodiments, tertiary seal 203 forms external lip 216that extends away from facial mask 101 on cheek region 209.

In at least certain embodiments, external lip 216 doubles as at leastone additional seal under secondary seal 202.

In at least some embodiments, tertiary seal 203 forms an internal lipthat extends toward the mouth, such as shown in FIG. 2 .

In at least certain embodiments, the internal lip doubles as at leastone additional seal under secondary seal 202.

In at least some embodiments vents 106 contain dual crossbars 222 toreceive at least one attachment element (not shown).

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 100 is reusable by a wearerof mask assembly 100.

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 100 is made in a comfortabledesign for short or long-term wear.

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 100 seals by variousmaterials and designs, including but not limited to, materials ofelastomeric masks, positive airway pressure masks and designs.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of mask is a facial surface view of atleast one embodiment of mask 101 illustrating, among other things,primary seal 201 and keyhole slot 205 positioned substantially aboutupper nose region 208 of primary seal 201. Primary seal 201 continuousabout upper nose 208 and cheek regions 209, areas parallel to mouth 210and cheeks 209 and about areas under chin region 211. Keyhole slot 205substantially encompasses bridge 206 and sides 207 of upper nose region208 of primary seal 201 to provide proper placement and fit of mask 201.

In at least some embodiments, secondary seal 202 is positioned aboutprimary seal 201 in problem areas, including but not limited to, areasparallel to mouth 210 and under chin region 211 of mask 201. Secondaryseal 202 can further include chin cup 212 for increased fit, support andseal of chin region 211, and to provide a proper seal of mask 101against a user's face.

In at least some embodiments, tertiary seal 203 is positioned aboutprimary seal 201 in problem areas, including but not limited to, areasparallel to mouth 210 and cheeks 209. In at least some embodiments,tertiary seal 203 extends outward from primary seal 201 when at rest.

In at least some embodiments, tertiary seal 203 can inwardly fold,deform and/or flatten against the face to enable a broadly effectiveseal and expand the sealing area when worn. Similarly, in someembodiments tertiary seal 203 can outwardly fold, deform and/or flattenagainst the face to enable a broadly effective seal and expand thesealing area when worn.

Seal Test Scissors

In at least some embodiments, mask assembly 200 includes test scissors240 for use in conjunction with facial mask 220 to confirm facial mask220 is properly sealed. In at least some embodiments, test scissors 240provide a passive method of testing the seals of facial mask 220 whilein use.

FIG. 3 shows a frontal view of at least one embodiment of mask assembly200 depicting test scissors 240 with straps removed for clarity. Whentest scissors 240 are temporarily mounted in place, test scissors 240are substantially mounted along facial mask 220 about upper and lowerside vents enabling the use of a spring-loaded mechanism 237 to biasscissor frames 225, 226 against facial mask vents. The placement of testscissors 240, allows test scissors 240 to substantially, if notentirely, seal facial mask vents. When facial mask vents are properlysealed, they prevent, or at least reduce, bidirectional airflow. Thisallows the user to passively test facial mask 220 seals by attempting toinhale, while facial mask vents are temporarily sealed.

In at least some embodiments, when bidirectional airflow is prevented,or at least reduced, by test scissors 240, the user inhales such that ifa proper seal exists, mask 220 is at least partially pulled inwardtowards the face of the wearer.

In some embodiments, when the bidirectional airflow is prevented, or atleast reduced, by test scissors 240, and the user is then able toinhale, such that if an improper seal exists, mask 220 will draw airthrough the seal. If air is drawn through a portion of the seal the userknows mask 220 is not properly sealed.

FIG. 4 is a frontal perspective view showing an example of test scissors240 in a relaxed state and in a closed position. In the shownembodiments, test scissors 240 have first scissor frame 227 and secondscissor frame 228, each having top portion 229 and bottom portion 230separated by fulcrum point 231. In some embodiments, fulcrum point 231affixes at least a portion of first scissor frame 227 and second scissorframe 228 to one another in a substantially cross-shaped manner. In atleast some embodiments, fulcrum point 231 includes attachment mechanismfor securing first scissor frame 227 and second scissor frame 228.

In at least some embodiments, top portion 229 of first 227 scissor frameand second scissor frame 228 have upper 232 and lower 233 portions. Inat least some embodiments, upper portion 232 has an inward curvaturethat is substantially similar to the curvature of nose 208 and cheek 209regions of facial mask 220. In at least some embodiments, lower portion233 has an inward curvature that is substantially similar to thecurvature parallel to the mouth 210 and chin 211 areas of the facialmask 201. In some embodiments, upper 232 and/or lower 233 portions oftop portion 229 have sealing material 234, including but not limit to,elastomeric, elastic polymeric materials, open cell foam and/or closedcell foam.

In some embodiments, bottom portion 230 of first scissor frame 227 andsecond scissor frame 228 are configured to be handles 235, In someembodiments, at least one attachment point 236 is used for connectingbiasing mechanism 237 to handles 235. In some embodiments, biasingmechanism 237 can be made of, but not limited to, springs, shape memoryalloys and actuators, magnets and other biasing mechanisms.

In some embodiments, test scissors 240 are naturally biased in a closedposition by biasing mechanism 237. In some embodiments, test scissors240 can have biasing mechanism 237 in an extended state with testscissors 240 in a closed position. In some embodiments, the extendedstate can further bias handles 235 in an outward direction. In at leastsome embodiments, the extended state requires compression to bias testscissors 240 in an open position.

FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of test scissors 240 in the openposition. In some embodiments, biasing mechanism 237 is biased such thattop portion 229 of test scissors 240 spread outwardly when handles 235are spread outwardly by a user. In some embodiments, when handles 235are spread outwardly, biasing mechanism 237 can be extended by the user.

In at least one embodiment, the fulcrum attachment mechanism can be asuitable method of attachment mechanism including, but not limited to,screws, rods, hinges, dowels, pins and/or pegs.

Clip-On Shield Assembly

In conjunction with facial mask assemblies, users who are concernedabout airborne contaminants, particulates and/or pathogens often desireprotection of the eyes. In at least some embodiments, shield 638 canprovide protection for its users.

FIG. 6 is a frontal view of an embodiment of mask assembly 600 withshield assembly 621 attached. In some embodiments, such as the onedepicted in FIG. 6 , shield assembly 621 is attached to mask 601 by wayof clip-on element 620. In some embodiments, shield assembly 621 has atleast one conformal headband 642. In certain embodiments, when shieldassembly 621 is attached to mask assembly 600, shield assembly 621biases shield 638 toward the wearer. In at least some of theseembodiments, a wearer is provided with continuity of protection, as maskassembly 600 and shield assembly 621 partially overlap. This overlapprovides a protective barrier from airborne particulates, fluids and/orsolids.

In at least some embodiments, shield assembly 621 can be equallyprotective of the perimeter of shield 638 to provide additionalprotection.

FIG. 7 is a side perspective of a certain embodiment of mask assembly600 and shield assembly 621. In the illustrated embodiment, shieldassembly 621 is attached to mask assembly 600, having shield 638 andclip-on element 620. In some embodiments, clip-on element 620substantially conforms to the shape of mask 601 in order to facilitateattachment. In at least some embodiments, clip-on element 620 isattached to at least one upper vent 606 of mask 601 by way of attachmentelement 623 and includes adjustable element 619 (see FIG. 8 ) configuredto engage opening 618 in mask 601. In at least some embodiments,adjustable element 619 is capable of biasing shield assembly 621 towardthe user's face.

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of shield 638. In some embodiments,shield 638 includes conformal headband 642 and/or conformal contactelement 643 capable of conforming to a wearer's head.

In at least some embodiments, shield 638 can have, among other things,upper area 644, side area 645 and lower area 646. In certainembodiments, lower area 646 of shield 638 is permanently or removablyattached to clip-on element 620.

In at least some embodiments, shield 638 includes conformal headband 642disposed upon upper area 644 of shield 638. In some embodiments,conformal contact element 643 is disposed upon upper area 644 of shield638.

In at least some embodiments, shield 638 can be translucent, clear,and/or partial or fully shaded. In certain embodiments, shield 638 canbe constructed of various material including but not limited to,polycarbonates and acrylics with varying flexibility.

In at least some embodiments, conformal headband 642 and/or conformalcontact element 643 can be placed at other locations on shield 638. Incertain embodiments, conformal headband 642 and/or conformal contactelement 643 can be continuous and/or intermittently placed on shield638, they can be integral with shield 638 and/or affixed upon shield638.

In at least some embodiments, conformal headband 642 materials can be,including but not limited to, a bendable element of aluminum and/orflexible form retaining plastics/foams.

In certain embodiments, conformal contact element 634 can be made of,including but not limited to, adhesive backed foams, elastomers,polymers, flexible and/or air-filled structures.

In at least some embodiments, clip-on element 620 can have, at least oneattachment element 623, at least one shield receiving portion 648 and/orat least one adjustable element 619. In certain embodiments, attachmentelements 623 can be, among other things, clip tabs and/or snap-in clips.

In at least some embodiments, shield receiving portion 648 can be, amongother things, tongue in groove, hook and loop, magnetic and/or adhesivemethods. In certain embodiments, adjustable element 619 can be, amongother things, an adjustable leaf spring tab, an adjustable biasing tab,incremental tooth connecting tab, and/or shape memory alloys that can beconfigured to bias toward the user's face.

Adjustable element 619 can be made of, among other things, stainlesssteel with properties of spring steel, plastics and other metals capableof being bent to retain a configuration that will bias shield assembly621 toward the wearer. In at least some embodiments, shield 638 protectsthe forehead region of the wearer by conformal headband 642 and/orcontact element 643.

Strap Adjustment Assembly

Turning to FIG. 9 , strap adjustment frame 700 is shown at the back ofthe head of a wearer with a continuous strap snapped into the snap-inslots in front of the nose and below the chin. In some embodiments,strap adjustment frame 700 can have at least one hollow strap slot 702that extends the length of the frame, from side 720 to side 722, andholding bars 704 and 706. Strap adjustment frame 700 can be onecontinuous piece or multiple pieces configured to snap together. In someembodiments, frame 700 can have additional slots 710 and 712 that extendthe length of the frame. Slots in strap adjustment frame 700 can be usedto thread and secure strap 708. In some embodiments, slot 702 can beused to adjust the tension of strap 708.

Slot 702 can function to thread, secure and adjust a strap or straps. Asshown in FIGS. 9-11 , strap 708 can be inserted into slot 702 on side720 of frame 700 and extended through frame 700 such that the strapexits the side 722 of the frame. In some embodiments, strap 708 can thenbe folded on itself to create pull loop 714. End 716 of strap 708 canthen be reinserted into slot 702 on side 722 of frame and extendedthrough the frame such that end 716 exits slot 702 on side 722 of theframe. End 716 and pull loop 714 can then be used to tighten, loosen orotherwise adjust the fit of a mask held in place by the strap adjustmentframe.

In some embodiments, frame 700 can include gap 724 that extends thelength of the frame and is centered over and continuous with slot 702.

In some embodiments, holding bars 704 and 706 function to thread andsecure strap 726 that extends from the opposite side of a wearer's head.In some embodiments, strap 726 is continuous with strap 708. In someembodiments, strap 708 and crossing strap 726 are independent straps.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , strap adjustment assembly 760 can be usedto secure mask 750 to the head of a wearer by snap-in slots 752 presenton the upper and lower portion of mask 750. Snap-in slots 752 securestraps 754 and 756 that extend from mask 750 to frame 700. In someembodiments, strap 754 and strap 756 are separate, independent straps.In some embodiments, strap 754 is continuous with strap 756.

In some embodiments, strap adjustment assembly 760 can secure a mask orrespirator to a user by positioning a strap or straps above the ears andacross the jawline and upper neck.

In some or the same embodiments, the strap and mask tension settingsestablished by strap slot 702 and holding bars 704 and 706 can be lockedinto the strap adjustment frame 700 such that the tension settings aremaintained upon removal of strap adjustment frame 700 from a wearer. Insome embodiments, this prevents a wearer from having to adjust theframe, straps or attached mask with each use. In some embodiments, theuse of snap-in slots 752 on front of the mask 750 allows for the mask tonaturally center to the face of a wearer at every use.

In some embodiments, strap adjustment assembly 760 allows the strap tobe pulled on or secured in such a manner that the mask or respirator isequally tensioned and centered on a wearer without adjustment to thestraps.

In some embodiments, the strap adjustment assembly 760 frame can be auniversal device capable of securing a mask or respirator to both adultsand children.

In at least some embodiments, strap adjustment assembly 760 isconfigured to be used with at least the five National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certification adult head forms;small, short-wide, large, medium, and long-narrow.

In some embodiments, the strap adjustment assembly 760 minimizes, or atleast reduces, the contact between of a strap with the face and head toprevent, or at least reduce the likeliness of, the strap from retainingpollutants, odors and pathogens that can be absorbed from a wearer'ssweat and skin.

In some embodiments, strap adjustment assembly can secure a strap madeof conventional elastic materials including but not limited tothermoplastic polyurethane, rubber, latex, silicone or nylon. In someembodiments, the strap can have an additional coating to prevent, or atleast reduce skin irritation and/or pulling at the hair of a wearer.

In some embodiments, the strap adjustment assembly can beboiled/autoclaved and is reusable. In some embodiments, the strapadjustment assembly can be cleaned by chemical disinfectant methods. Insome embodiments, the strap adjustment system does not need to bedisassembled from straps to be boiled, autoclaved and/or treated with achemical disinfectant. In some embodiments where the strap adjustmentassembly is used with variations or combination of mask assembly 100,mask assembly 600, mask 101 and/or shield assembly 621, it does not tobe disassembled from these devices before being boiled, autoclaved ortreated with a chemical disinfectant.

It would be recognized that, particular elements (such as, but notlimited to, the clip-on shield assembly and the strap adjustment device)can be incorporated into facemask assemblies in other suitablecombinations or arrangements, for example to suit particularapplications.

Particular elements (such as, but not limited to, the mask assembly,test scissors, shield assembly, strap adjustment assembly and the like)can be made with, including but not limited to, elastomers, polymers,polyolefins, antistatics, antimicrobials, and repellants.

While particular elements, embodiments and applications of the presentinvention have been shown and described, it will be understood, that theinvention is not limited thereto since modifications can be made bythose skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure, particularly in light of the foregoing teachings.

What is claimed is:
 1. A seal test scissor assembly comprising: (a) afirst scissor frame; (b) a second scissor frame; (c) a fulcrum point;and (d) a biasing mechanism; wherein when said seal test scissorassembly is in a closed position, said biasing mechanism is in a relaxedstate; wherein said seal test scissor assembly is configured to be usedwith a mask assembly.
 2. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 1further comprising: (e) an attachment point disposed about said firstand second scissor frame.
 3. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 1further comprising: (e) a top portion disposed about said first scissorframe and said second scissor frame, wherein said top portion has asealing section made of a sealing material.
 4. The seal test scissorassembly of claim 3 wherein said sealing material is at least partiallydisposed about said top portion of said first and second scissor frame.5. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 3 wherein said sealingmaterial is a foam.
 6. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 1 furthercomprising: (e) a bottom portion disposed about said first and secondscissor frame.
 7. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 1 wherein saidmask assembly comprises: (i) a front section; (ii) a vent system; (iii)a primary seal; (iv) a secondary seal; and (v) a tertiary seal; whereinsaid tertiary seal is disposed about said primary seal and is configuredto encompass said secondary seal.
 8. The seal test scissor assembly ofclaim 7, wherein said seal test scissor assembly is configured to blocksaid vent system when in a closed position with a sealing section. 9.The seal test scissor assembly of claim 7 further comprising: (e) afilter.
 10. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 9 wherein saidfilter is pleated.
 11. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 7 whereinsaid secondary seal forms a chin cup.
 12. The seal test scissor assemblyof claim 7 wherein said tertiary seal is configured to extend outwardlyfrom said primary seal.
 13. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 7wherein said primary seal is made of silicone.
 14. The seal test scissorassembly of claim 7 wherein said biasing mechanism is a spring.
 15. Theseal test scissor assembly of claim 7 wherein said biasing mechanism isa pair of magnets.
 16. The seal test scissor assembly of claim 7 whereinsaid biasing mechanism comprises a spring memory alloy.
 17. The sealtest scissor assembly of claim 1 wherein said mask assembly comprises:(i) a front section; and (ii) a vent system; wherein said seal testscissor assembly is configured to block said vent system when in aclosed position with a sealing section.